Ipswich creatives are invited to submit Expressions of Interest for a rare opportunity to enhance public spaces through the South East Queensland (SEQ) City Deal Public Art Initiatives.
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said public art is fundamental to continuing Ipswich’s reputation as a vibrant and creative city.
“Public art makes our city more attractive and vibrant and it also contributes to our economic growth and development. I am very pleased Ipswich has been allocated $810,000 for new public art as part of the SEQ City Deal,” Mayor Harding said.
“Ipswich and the arts go hand in hand. Our residents love to create and admire art, whether that’s through the Ipswich Art Gallery, deLight projections at SPARK or the existing public art installations across Ipswich.
“Now we have an incredible new opportunity for artists to submit their ideas for unique artworks for four locations – d’Arcy Doyle Place, River Heart Parklands, Bremervale Park and Tallegalla Cemetery.
“These four locations across the city have been shortlisted as a good fit for the SEQ City Deal guidelines, with each location enhancing existing projects.
“Council is proud to have a strong relationship with local creatives and by offering a broad budget for the EOIs, we know that we will receive applications for a range of works from artists at varying stages of their careers.
“I would like to thank the Australian Government, Queensland Government and the Council of Mayors SEQ for funding this wonderful initiative.”
Economic and Cultural Development Committee Chairperson Councillor Pye Augustine said each location will require something unique.
“Art has a beautiful way of evoking different emotions and having access to this in public spaces will allow people to feel more connected to the place and people around them,” Cr Augustine said.
“The kind of art that will make people feel reflective at Tallegalla Cemetery will be different to what is needed in the natural surroundings of Bremervale Park.
“Local creatives can work individually or collaborate with others to bring their creations to life. Though there are four shortlisted locations, ultimately funding will be directed to the best option for the community.
“Funding could be invested into a number of artworks or pooled together for one or two impactful pieces.”
The South East Queensland City Deal Public Arts Initiatives program is a commitment between the Australian Government, Queensland Government and the Council of Mayors SEQ.
Expressions of Interest are now open and will close at 2pm, Wednesday 10 March via Vendor Panel. For more information about requirements and to apply, visit ShapeYourIpswich.com.au/public-art-commission